Several us here in Texas use window AC units in our Westys....installed in
the drivers window when we camp.  As far as using an inverter to run it, it
is not going to work well.  Here are the numbers.  The AC units normally run
about 9 amps at 120VAC while running, and about 12 amps for starting.  That
is roughly 1080 Watts.  You would need an inverter with the output of at
least that, and to handle the start load, I wouldn't want to run anything
less than 1500 watts.  Remember that these inverters are not 100% effective.
  If you figure 85% efficiency, you will need to supply the inverter with in
excess of 105 Amps.  This will take some VERY large cable.  In addition, the
Vanagon alternator is (as I recall) 70 Amps.  When you also consider the
additional electrical load of lights, ignition system, audio, etc. it
becomes a rather impractical solution.
Steve Sandlin
http://www.steveslockshop.com
'84 Wolfsburg Westy
'79 Transporter
'00New Beetle
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